Potatoes
Overview
Australian growers produce more than a million tonnes of potato every year, worth more than a billion dollars.
Pests of concern in potatoes include Potato Tuber Moth (Phthorimaea operculella), other caterpillars, various aphids, and to a lesser extent, thrips.
Many potato pests can be managed with biological controls.
- Aphids such as Green Peach Aphid and Potato Aphid can be reduced by utilising Aphid Parasite Mix (Aphidius colemani, Aphidius ervi, Aphelinus abdominalis and Diaeretiella rapae).
- Looper caterpillars and Heliothis can be controlled with Trichogramma pretiosum (Trichogramma) in many outdoor situations.
Natural enemies of these pests are likely to be active in nature strips along the borders of crop fields. However, it is important that you control any weeds along the borders that may act as pest hosts.
Signs you have Potatoes pests
The key to controlling pests in your potato crop effectively, is detecting them early and introducing beneficials at the right moment.
You can learn how to identify and control each key pest on its dedicated page.
Products you can use to control Potatoes pests
Biological Services produces a range of products to control pests in potato.
Other tips for managing pests in your Potatoes
Your local Biological Services consultant can provide year-round, professional crop monitoring and expert IPM program advice.
Get tailored advice for your commercial crop
To speak with one of our qualified consultants about your current commercial crop challenge or to learn about the benefits of the IPM maintenance and monitoring services we provide, contact us.
Sign up to our mailing list
Subscribe to hear about new products, industry updates and company news.